Contrary to popular belief, the words ‘modest’ and ‘fashionable’ are not opposites. Decide what your standards of modesty are, and find trendy pieces that fit within those standards. Add layers to make things more modest, and adorn yourself with the right accessories to add flair to your look.
For those into modest-wear attending the Dubai World Cup, here are some top tips to stay stylish at the world’s richest horse race:
Accessorise
A huge statement necklace will be a key piece for you. It will instantly add panache to a plain dress. It is also a great way to accessorise open-necked shirts or scooped necklines. Another way is to use a long, light silk scarf wrapped around the neck and tied in a huge floppy bow at the front.
If you are struggling to find a creative way to cover up some areas, try a scarf. People love scarves, but often forgo them because they don’t know how to arrange them. If you love vintage brooches, but can’t seem to figure out how to wear one, now’s your chance! And did you know you can wear a scarf as a vest?
Shirt it
A crisp, white shirt often looks great if worn under a short-sleeved or sleeveless dress. You could always add a portable long sleeve-like glove for a more glamorous look.
Accentuate
Tulip and A-line skirts are great, because they will further accentuate your waist, and you can clinch them in with fun-coloured stretchy belts. It can be tricky at times to find skirts and dresses below the knee. At such times, a great trick is to wear a heavy lace or net petticoat that is longer than the skirt — so that it just peeks out and covers your knees.
Head and toes
Head pieces and covers can be quite creative; head wraps such as turbeanies are very trendy and you can always jazz it up by choosing a luxurious material, texture or print. Try woven or printed pashminas with a gold wrap. Let’s not forget them statement shoes to wrap the whole look.
And finally ...
Maxi dresses/skirts and palazzo pants are perfect to wear and always stylish and modest because they are loose and comfortable. Choose fabric that is opaque and not clingy. Most importantly, try to abide by to the dress code. Wearing your personality is another statement to make.
— Lamya Abedin is a UAE-based Emirati designer who designs under the Queen of Spades label. Known for her take on abayas, Abedin will be showcasing her first collection of gowns at the Arab Fashion Week, to be held from March 16 to 19. To register, go to arabfashionweek.org.
